Audi has introduced the Nuvolari, its most powerful and fastest supercar to date, named in honor of the legendary Italian racer Tazio Nuvolari. This hybrid powerhouse boasts an impressive 987 horsepower, a top speed exceeding 350 km/h, and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.6 seconds. The Nuvolari is not only a testament to Audi’s engineering prowess but also a celebration of its new design philosophy.
The Nuvolari’s design is characterized by taut surfaces and a monolithic volume, setting it apart from other Audis. The exterior features a new signature color, Titanium, paired with carbon elements that highlight its precise and functional forms. Almost all exterior components are manufactured from CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) using prepreg autoclave technology derived from Formula 1.
Audi Nuvolari: Performance and Technology
The heart of the Nuvolari is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine, supplemented by three axial flux electric motors. Two of these motors are located on the front axle, while the third is integrated with the transmission. The combined output of this hybrid system is a staggering 987 horsepower, with the V-8 contributing 800 horsepower and each electric motor adding 148 horsepower. The engine can reach a redline of 10,000 rpm and produces 538 pound-feet of torque.
Audi claims a 0-62 mph time of 2.6 seconds and 0-124 mph in 6.8 seconds. These performance figures are achieved through a range of innovations inspired by Formula 1, including a high-performance hybrid powertrain, quattro predictive ride, active aerodynamics, and a new Audi Space Frame with carbon exterior. The electric motors play a crucial role in the Nuvolari’s handling, enabling torque vectoring and assisting in braking with brake recuperation. Fully electric driving is possible thanks to a 7.3-kilowatt-hour battery pack.
Audi Nuvolari: Design and Aerodynamics
The Nuvolari’s design language emphasizes taut surfaces and presents as a monolithic volume. It features a brutalist minimalism with straight lines and squared-off motifs. Notable design elements include an S-duct in the front hood and a single wide exhaust exit mounted high on the rear end. The lights both front and rear are pared down to just four individual glowing dashes.
Active aerodynamics play a significant role in the car’s performance. The rear wing adapts to different driving situations, providing high downforce under braking and in corners, and shifting to low downforce on the straights. A DRS button on the steering wheel allows the driver to manually close the wing for maximum top speed. Additional aerodynamic features include a front splitter, a rear diffuser, and a vented front end S-duct that produces downforce and helps cool the powertrain.
Audi Nuvolari: Interior and Production
The interior of the Nuvolari is designed to focus on the driver. It is divided into two zones, with the front section being darker to reduce distraction and the rear finished in Shadow Dune for contrast. Seats are made out of carbon fiber, and anodized aluminum is used throughout for elements like air vents, controls, and the central display frame. The color accents in the screen are a callback to the Auto Union Type C.
Audi has limited the production of the Nuvolari to 499 examples. The car is scheduled to begin deliveries in the first half of 2027, with a price tag of at least £500,000. The Nuvolari represents a significant leap in supercar technology and design, honoring the legacy of Tazio Nuvolari while pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
